Failed Attack

Napoleon is considered one of the greatest military geniuses of all time. Yet, the loss at Waterloo ended his political and military ambitions. In addition to his own strategic mistakes, there were external factors—in terrain and weather—that he could not overcome. His defeat on June 18, 1815, was a reminder that even the best warriors are subject to elements they cannot control.

Today’s verse describes how Satan summons a vast army, “whose number is as the sand of the sea,” to surround “the camp of the saints and the beloved city” (21:10). The giant force seems poised to capture the city, which Satan claims as his own (Isaiah 14:13).

But although some of the greatest military geniuses of all time stand by Satan’s side, there are elements that he cannot control. Even the best warriors cannot overcome it: God’s power. Just as when “war broke out in heaven” and he “did not prevail” and “was cast out” (Revelation 12:7), so will this wicked leader be “cut down to the ground” (Isaiah 14:12) and “brought down to Sheol, to the lowest depths of the Pit” (v. 15).

Christ and the saints have descended to the earth in the holy city, an event described in more detail in Revelation 21. In today’s brief description, the wicked then prepare to attack the New Jerusalem. But every rebellious heart must see the Son of Man lifted up. Now is the moment of personal reflection, when guilt convicts every unrepentant heart.

Now is when God’s prediction comes true: “Every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God” (Romans 14:11). Fire then comes down upon the lost, flames that do not burn forever but have a forever consequence. The fire “devoured them.” It’s a sad ending for those who refuse to accept God’s gift of eternal life.

Mighty God, I believe You will provide every opportunity for people to accept or reject Your love. I receive You into my heart forever.

For Further Study: Psalm 140:10; Ezekiel 38:16; Philippians 2:10

Key Bible Texts

And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them. (Revelation 20:9 KJV)